Fight or Flight

by Brian Kodi
January 2, 1998

Survival instincts have played a central role in the evolution of species throughout the generations. As such, the human anatomy is inherently equipped with mechanisms to handle danger. While there is a clear purpose for instinct, the downside is that combat skills acquired in training can clash with an excess of these natural reactions to tamper with performance. To harness the effects of natural reactions, it is important to understand the physical changes the body goes through during periods of danger.

When there is a perceived threat of bodily harm, the initial physical response can vary from "Frozen Fright" to "Fight or Flight". This process begins when the two adrenal glands above each kidney secrete the hormone adrenaline into the bloodstream. The immediate change that follows is a rise in heartbeat which triggers an increased blood pressure. One or more physical senses may become more acute while others shut down. Concentration and alertness are greatly increased at this stage.

When faced with possible danger, the two common reactions of fear and anger, individually or in tandem, can take control of the body. Fear causes extra blood to be diverted from the face, neck and head to those muscles that most aid in self defense. Incidentally, this diversion of blood away from the head causes some people to turn pale and/or faint when petrified. Anger produces a similar response with the exception that blood rushes to the face, neck and head, thus giving the appearance of a threatening adversary. Failure to act when the bloodstream is pumped with adrenaline causes weakness and possible nausea. The unmetabolized hormones produce trembles and shaking in the arms and legs, loss of concentration and composure. This can often lead to exhaustion before the body regains its balance and achieves equilibrium. Therefore, physical arousal associated with fight or flight cannot be sustained indefinitely.

The ideal state in a confrontation is one of moderate anger and/or fear. Excess of either of these two mental states can stifle reaction and hinder performance. Deficiency can lead to foolish mistakes. To achieve a moderate mental and physical state in an altercation, the two most important elements are confidence and experience, neither of which are sufficient to complete the desired effect alone. A confident beginner in any style of martial arts is a dead man in the making. An experienced fighter who suffers from a lack of confidence is bound to meet the same fate.

Confidence is best developed through successful trials of actual combat (experience). Since combat involves an unacceptable risk of injury among other negative connotations, full contact sparring with heavy protective gear in a practical style(s) of martial arts is a good substitute. Uncertainty is a major contributor to losing control from excessive fear. Hence it is essential to experience firsthand what it feels like to take blows to the body as well as being controlled on the ground.

Tournaments are also important but not necessary in the evolution of a proficient fighter. Any medium that strives to take the control away from the practitioner is of educational value. No one desires to be forced into a situation where some or all of the control can be taken away, but a little risk is needed to achieve a greater outcome. For self defense purposes, one must assess his/her risk category and desire before determining the best course of training. At the opposite ends of the spectrum, a professional fighter and a computer programmer should follow vastly different training regimens. Greater risk calls for more aggressive training. The ability to overcome excessive fear and/or anger, however, is essential in any risk category in order to fully capitalize on acquired combat skills. Therefore, steps must be taken by every practicing martial artist to control the potential negative effects of anger and fear.

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